The Peninsula Campaign in perspective
The Peninsular Campaign had altogether been a triumph
for Wellington, earning him the admiration and gratitude
of Spanish and British audiences - by its conclusion
he had garnered a string of honours including Knight
of the Garter and Order of the Golden Fleece, financial
reward and even the presentation by the Spanish of a
collection of old masters previously looted by the French.
The Campaign showed off the breadth and range of Wellington's
talents: in tactics, planning, commonsense courage and by
building upon the momentum afforded by repeated victory to
acquire a growing reputation for infallibility that privately
he discouraged - an unpompous and clearheaded man he knew
many of his battles were close run affairs - but publicly
did little to curtail.
Wellington's reputation rode ahead of him and often overawed
his contestants. Not being naïve, he was aware
of its potential to inspire fear and respect among allies
and opponents alike. His formidable physical presence
and firm but fair command won the loyalty of his officers
and men. Tempered by compassion and a bluff good humour
that spawned countless memorable aphorisms, he was possessed
of that mysterious something: the character and
sheer personality that are vital ingredients in the
'alchemy of war'.
|
